HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2025)

Genre: Action/Adventure
Director: Dean DeBlois
Cast: Mason Thames, Gerard Butler, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd, Peter Serafinowicz, Murray McArthur 
Runtime: 2 hr 5 mins
Rating: PG (Some Intense Sequences)
Released By: UIP
Official Website: 

Opening Day: 11 June 2025

Synopsis: On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames; The Black Phone, For All Mankind) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society. With the fierce and ambitious Astrid (BAFTA nominee Nico Parker; Dumbo, The Last of Us) and the village’s quirky blacksmith Gobber (Nick Frost; Snow White and the Huntsman, Shaun of the Dead) by his side, Hiccup confronts a world torn by fear and misunderstanding. As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both Vikings and dragons, Hiccup’s friendship with Toothless becomes the key to forging a new future. Together, they must navigate the delicate path toward peace, soaring beyond the boundaries of their worlds and redefining what it means to be a hero and a leader.

Movie Review:

The necessity of live-action remakes of beloved animated films has long been a topic of debate. Purists often argue that these updated versions risk spoiling the magic of the originals. Others question whether the remakes add anything new or if they simply rehash familiar stories without meaningful changes.

Audiences typically expect a fresh take in these remakes. After all, if someone told you a remake was a shot-for-shot replica, it probably wouldn’t sound very appealing. But after watching the live-action remake of the 2010 animated classic How to Train Your Dragon produced by DreamWorks Animation and originally based on Cressida Cowell’s 2003 novel, we’re starting to believe that staying true to the original isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

If you’ve seen the animated original, you know the drill. On the island of Berk, where Vikings pride themselves on battling dragons, these fire-breathers are public enemy number one. Enter Hiccup (yes, that’s really his name): scrawny, brainy, and basically everything a Viking isn’t supposed to be. He’s also the son of Chief Stoick, making things delightfully awkward. Instead of slaying dragons like a proper Viking lad, Hiccup befriends one - an elusive Night Fury who’s meant to be terrifying but is, in this version, undeniably adorable. He even names him Toothless. Together, the unlikely duo set out to upend Berk’s long-standing dragon-hating ways, proving that perhaps mutual understanding beats large-scale fire-breathing conflict.

Dean DeBlois, who directed the original How to Train Your Dragon and its 2014 and 2019 sequels (and co-directed the beloved Lilo & Stitch) - makes his live-action debut with a film that clearly holds a special place in his heart. Bringing back the original filmmaker to reimagine the story for a new generation of young viewers (and nostalgic adults along for the ride) proves to be a smart move. It’s evident that DeBlois has poured genuine care into this adaptation, lovingly recreating the magic that made the original so memorable.

This writer vividly remembers how the animated version pulled him into the skies, seeing everything from Hiccup’s point of view, while gripping onto Toothless as they flew through the air. That sense of wonder and flight was unforgettable. In the live-action remake, the thrill is dialed up even further. The flight sequences are nothing short of exhilarating, made even more awe-inspiring by the stunning real-world backdrop of Northern Ireland’s dramatic cliffs and sweeping landscapes. The rush of wind, the dizzying drops, the heart-stopping swoops over craggy peaks - it all feels so real, you almost forget you’re not actually flying.

In a smart casting choice, Gerard Butler returns as Stoick, bringing his signature gravitas and larger-than-life presence to the role. Another familiar face is Nick Frost, who adds warmth and humour as Berk’s blacksmith and trainer of the village’s young dragon-fighting recruits. The younger cast includes Nico Parker as Astrid, Hiccup’s strong-willed love interest; Julian Dennison as Fishlegs, the brainy and loveable gentle giant; Gabriel Howell as the arrogant and swaggering Snotlout; and Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn as the constantly squabbling twins, Ruffnut and Tuffnut. Together, this youthful ensemble brings heart and charm to their roles, breathing fresh energy into these beloved characters.

The standout here is Mason Thames, whose slight frame and unconventional, non-leading-man appearance make him a perfect fit for Hiccup. He brings a quiet charm and vulnerability to the role that feels true to the character. And of course, there's Toothless - brought to life through stunning CGI that makes it feel as though the original dragon has flown right off the screen. He looks more lifelike than ever, with every blink, snort, and tail flick full of personality. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to run out and grab some Toothless merchandise afterward.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology, the dragons in this remake are nothing short of spectacular. If you’ve watched the popular TV series Game of Thrones, it feels as though those fearsome beasts have leapt off the small screen and onto the big one - bigger, bolder, and ready to scorch the skies. Their presence is elevated by the stunning real-world landscapes that serve as the film’s backdrop. Add to that John Powell’s returning, emotionally rich score, and you’ve got a family-friendly cinematic adventure that wraps you in warmth and leaves you smiling as the credits roll.

Movie Rating:

(Soar high in this thrilling cinematic adventure that faithfully rekindles the timeless boy-and-dragon friendship with heart, spectacle, and fresh magic for a new generation)

Review by John Li